On a 'Re-Mission' to save lives of kids with cancer

Although Rashida Wilkins is only 18, she has already weathered eight years of cancer therapy, including four brain surgeries, six weeks of radiation and nearly two years of chemotherapy. She knows she should follow her doctors' advice. Yet Wilkins, like many teens with cancer, has at times deliberately stopped taking pills that are vital for her health. FORUM: Cancer patients, survivors and loved ones sound off HEALTH BLOG: Latest cancer findings and recommendations Of all cancer patients, teenagers are the least likely to consistently follow their care plans, says Steve Cole, associate professor at the University of California-Los Angeles School of Medicine. Unlike smaller children, teens are often responsible for taking their pills, Cole says. But unlike older adults, they may not believe their conditions are really... [read full story]